Top family-friendly things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Imaginate Festival is a real treat for kids, being the largest festival of performing arts for children and young people in Britain. It’s normally held in May each year.

There are more than 1,000 animals at Edinburgh Zoo, and it’s home to a famous pair of pandas. Giant pandas Tian Tian (‘sweetie’) and Yang Guang (‘sunshine’) have become two of the zoo’s most popular residents.

Even little legs will enjoy the clamber up Arthur’s Seat – the great outdoors yet practically in the city! The extinct volcano towers over Edinburgh, meaning you get amazing views across the city and beyond from the top.

Edinburgh Castle stands above the city on its rocky perch, meaning great views when you get up there. The castle is great fun to explore: look out for the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have fingers ready to press in ears for the 1 o’clock gun..!

The tale of Greyfriars Bobby is an endearing one. You can visit Greyfriars Kirkyard where he guarded his master’s grave. Then find the statue of the little mutt and give his nose a rub.

Descend into another era at The Real Mary King’s Close. This visitor attraction shows ancient Edinburgh streets that are now below the surface of the modern-day city. Don’t get too spooked!